Who knew that Greek Yogurt, this every day ingredient, quenches dehydrated skin and gives it a nourished and hydrated look. Manish Chowdhary, co-founder & CEO at Fit & Glow Healthcare, owning WOW Skin Science and Body Cupid, explains to us more about Greek Yogurt.

Summer is here! And with it arrives the season of mangoes and hot, hot sun. It’s also the time when you are thirsty and dehydrated, and so is your skin. But, don’t worry, Greek Yogurt is here to help. Here’s the thing, it’s not only great for your taste buds but also good for your skin. So, let’s get to know a little more about this skin hydrating activity that has been a beauty staple in traditional beauty recipes.

What’s Greek Yogurt?

Greek yogurt is thicker than ordinary yogurt. It goes through one extra step, straining. The whey from the yogurt is removed, resulting in a thicker, more protein-dense product.

Why makes Greek Yogurt so great?

Greek yogurt contains twice the amount of proteins than regular yogurt. Protein is an essential part of our skin structure. So, the protein in Greek yogurt helps to repair the skin tissues, and revive our skin making it stronger, more supple, radiant, and younger-looking. It hydrates the skin and provides instant relief from sunburn. Greek yogurt is also rich in B vitamins, enzymes, and zinc, that aid in the healing process of damaged skin.

Benefits of Greek yogurt on your skin

Reduces acne: This is rich in zinc, has natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It does wonders when it comes to preventing breakout of acne and giving a radiant glow. It helps to reduce the oil produced on the skin by controlling the sebaceous gland and reduces skin infections.

Repairs and maintains the moisture barrier of the skin: Vitamin B plays a major role in manufacturing cellular fat on the skin which makes the skin firm. Greek yogurt is rich in vitamins B2, B5, and B12 that helps to protect the skin from further damage. It is loaded with probiotics that help to restore skin’s natural barrier.

Exfoliates skin: The lactic acid present in the Greek yogurt makes it an excellent exfoliator. It contains a high amount of natural alpha hydroxy acid which removes dead cells and deep-seated dirt from the skin, resulting in smoothness. It also helps to stimulate the growth of cells and aids in faster skin renewal process.

Removes sunburn and skin irritation: The high amount of zinc present in Greek yogurt helps to reduce redness, skin irritation caused by sun exposure. It soothes the area and helps to repair skin damage. It lightens the skin and helps to reduce dark circles and blemishes leaving the skin bright and clear.

Has an anti-aging effect: Greek yogurt contains essential bacteria, and enzymes that help in the skin renewal process. The antioxidant activity in Greek yogurt helps to neutralize free radicals on the skin which otherwise can cause premature skin ageing. The lactic acid present in it helps to reduce wrinkles and fine lines and keeps the skin young and fresh.

Now, that we are aware of what a game-changer Greek yogurt can be for your skin, here are some DIY face masks for different skin types that will help you achieve your dream-skin.

Benefits of Greek yogurt on your skin

1. Greek Yogurt
2. Honey

Add-ons according to your skin type:

• Acne-prone skin: Smash 1/2 banana until smooth and add 1 teaspoon of turmeric or 1 drop lavender or tea tree essential oil

• Dry skin: Mash and add 1/2 of an avocado or 1 tablespoon facial oil or 1 tablespoon of honey

• Dull skin: Squeeze 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – the citric acid will also help brighten skin

• Redness and irritation: Add 1 drop lavender essential oil and 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel

• Ageing skin: Blend in a few blueberries for additional antioxidants

Steps:

• Combine 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt and 1 teaspoon raw honey along with your optional ingredient

• Apply a thin layer of mask evenly over your entire face, neck and décolletage

• Let it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing your face with cool water and applying moisturizer

So, go on hydrate and nourish your skin with Greek yogurt: apply, rinse, repeat and bask in the glow.

Disclaimer: This article is authored by Manish Chowdhary, co- founder & CEO at Fit & Glow Healthcare, owning WOW Skin Science and Body Cupid. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not represent those of GlobalSpa.